I was taught to swing the club, not hit the ball. This distinction is crucial because it emphasizes using your entire body to generate power, rather than relying on your hands. As golfers age—especially with the average age nearing 50—one of the most common faults is hitting from the top or using the hands too […]
Start to finish
The best ball strikers all move their head during the golf swing, though some more than others. The key is that at the moment of impact, their heads are consistently behind the ball. This position is only temporary, as immediately after impact, their heads move up and through the ball along with the rest of […]
Thou shall not speak his name
This takes on a whole new meaning when applied to the mental game of golf. Having played Division 1 golf for 10 years, I discovered that the most powerful tool in match play was not just my swing or strategy, but my words—both those I used with others and those I used with myself. It’s […]
No such word as can’t
The power of positive thinking in golf can’t be overstated. I’ve often been told that the brain doesn’t hear “don’t,” and this idea rings especially true after witnessing countless times when someone says, “You don’t want to go over there,” only for the ball to head straight in that direction. Our eyes tend to guide […]
Life is Like a Box of Chocolates
When people tell you to relax on the golf course, it’s usually well-intentioned advice. However, most golfers never reach a level where their focus is solely on the one thing they can control—the next shot. Golf is an emotional game, and maintaining balance on the course is essential. This balance can lead to moments of […]
Wood in hand, Wood in head
Bunkers on modern golf courses are so well-maintained that for those skilled in bunker play, getting up and down is almost automatic. However, amateurs often face a different reality with poorly maintained bunkers and subpar raking. Mastering 5m and 10m bunker shots is crucial for scoring well. Today’s courses have moved far from the days […]
Never up never in
Always go after it. I can’t count the number of times I’ve taken one club less and completely mishit it when I was in between clubs. I’ve learned my lesson: always try to make a full shot. The hardest shots in golf are the ones where you need to change your tempo and swing speed. […]
Listen to it land
Listening to the ball land on the green is one of the best insights that has helped me with my chipping, and it’s something I still use today. This simple but effective tip helps keep me steady and over the ball, preventing unnecessary movement. This, in turn, improves the strike and often leads to better […]
Big or little wrist cock?
Improving your release angle involves understanding the wrist cock, a crucial but often misunderstood part of the golf swing. A good setup, correct ball position, and a slow, consistent swing path will naturally lead to fully cocked wrists at the top of your backswing. Golfers often struggle to balance a full wrist hinge with shot […]
More Power
Golf training has evolved significantly, especially with the influence of players like Tiger Woods and other younger athletes who incorporate weight lifting into their routines. While hitting golf balls remains the best method to develop touch and feel, training for power and speed can greatly enhance performance. The Importance of Power and Speed Training Developing […]